Strictly Come Dancing star Michelle Tsiakkas revealed she was disappointed to miss the chance to perform with a celebrity partner in the 2025 series. The 30-year-old joined the BBC programme as a professional in 2022 but made her official debut on the dance floor last year when she was paired with former EastEnders actor Jamie Borthwick.
The pair narrowly missed out on the quarter-finals following their elimination in week 10. Despite her successful run last year, Michelle was one of the professionals who was left without a celebrity partner during this series. Speaking to Express.co.uk at the Pride of Britain Awards, Michelle opened up about how the decision truly made her feel. She said: “I was understandably disappointed. I think that’s a normal feeling that anyone would have. I thought last year was great and I just got a taste of what it was like to have a partner and I absolutely loved it.
“It’s a completely different experience when you have one, but then again I do understand that there’s a lot of pros and not all of them can get partners.”
Despite this, Michelle explained that she understands not every professional on the show can be paired with a partner, and she remains actively involved in as many aspects of the show as possible.
The star added: “I get that and I’ve accepted it. I’m still a part of the show. I’m still involved in music acts, It Takes Two. I’m trying to do as much as possible without having a partner. It’s a disappointment but I’ve got over it. I’m happy now and moving on.”
Cheering her co-stars on from the sidelines, Michelle revealed she is hoping Ellie Goldstein and Vito Coppola can go all the way.
“I love Vito and Ellie. I am in love with Ellie. I’m in love with their partnership together. I think he complements her so well and brings out the best in her,” Michelle gushed.
Praising Ellie, 23, as an inspiring role model, the Cypriot Sri-Lankan pro continued: “I think Ellie is an inspiration to all of us. She’s been through a lot and she’s such a great representation for everyone and for all the people with Down’s syndrome, she shows that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”
“Watching her dance every Saturday makes me emotional. She’s incredible. The charisma, the power, the energy, the level of her dancing as well, it’s all so great. I hope that they can get as far as they can this year. I’m rooting for them!”
The model and actress made history as the first contestant with Down’s syndrome to compete on Strictly. Ellie was also the first model with Down’s syndrome to be featured on the cover of fashion magazine Vogue.
